Our Take: Winston -- cover up?

April 24, 2014

Winston — cover-up?

It sure looks like Jameis Winston received preferential treatment from Florida State University and Tallahassee police, who failed to vigorously investigate the allegation that FSU's star quarterback raped a fellow student — until after he delivered a championship football season.

A recent New York Times investigation detailed flawed and lethargic investigations by both FSU and local police. Now, because of dropped balls, nobody will ever know whether Winston should have been arrested last year, or whether he is truly innocent of wrongdoing.

Unfortunately, the lack of investigative diligence gives the appearance of a cover-up.

The Times' exhaustive report revealed FSU and Tallahassee police failed in their duties — to the accuser, the accused and the larger community. They wasted months, broke investigative protocols and failed to go after evidence when it existed.

At the very least, the university and the police department owe the public a better response.

Instead, Florida State issued a press release discounting the Times' report, saying, "FSU does not tolerate sexual assault." The statement said the university educates students "on safe behavior, the meaning of consent and how to properly report cases of sexual misconduct. Contrary to the article's over-arching theme, FSU takes this matter seriously."

But the Times' investigation demands a far bigger response from FSU and Tallahassee police. People want to hear that someone with fresh eyes will be brought in to investigate, to review policies and to ensure that these failures will never be repeated.